This May, SM Supermalls, through its SM for MSMEs program, is strengthening its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and uplifting communities with a lineup of impactful initiatives across the country. These programs are designed to help local businesses expand, open doors for jobseekers, and create opportunities that allow communities to flourish.

From vibrant local bazaars and employment and business programs to regional trade fairs showcasing homegrown products, SM continues to serve as a catalyst for inclusive growth. By connecting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with wider markets, valuable mentorship, and meaningful opportunities, SM Supermalls is helping turn local dreams into sustainable success stories.

Celebrating Local Love at NakakaLocal Bazaar in Davao (May 8–10)

SM Supermalls executives Jason Penna, Asst. Mall Manager of SM Baguio, Pats Dy, Senior Asst. Vice President for SM Communities Marketing and Royce Cabunag, Asst. Vice President and Lead for SM Communities together with Lucien C. Dy Tioco, EVP of PhilSTAR Media Group; Gladys Vergara, chairperson of the Baguio Tourism Council; Atty. Raymond G. Panhon, regional director, CAR Department of Trade and Industry open the NakakaLocal Bazaar at SM City Baguio, championing Filipino MSMEs and local creativity.

Kicking off the month is the PHILSTAR NakakaLocal Bazaar at SM City Davao from May 8 to 10, transforming the Annex Event Center into a vibrant celebration of Filipino creativity and entrepreneurship.

Timed with Mother’s Day, the bazaar offers a curated selection of thoughtful gifts, local crafts, and proudly Pinoy products, making it the perfect destination for families looking to celebrate with heart. Shoppers can discover unique finds, enjoy live performances from local artists, and experience the warmth of community through homegrown brands.

Proud locally made products—from handcrafted goods to curated gift items—take center stage at the NakakaLocal Bazaar, offering meaningful finds for shoppers.

More than a retail event, NakakaLocal highlights how SM Supermalls provides MSMEs with high-visibility platforms that turn passion into progress.

Connecting Jobs and Businesses in Cebu (May 9)

On May 9, opportunities take center stage at SM Seaside City Cebu through Trabaho at Negosyo, a flagship program of the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship – Go Negosyo. Happening at the Mountain Wing Atrium, the event brings together jobseekers, entrepreneurs, mentors, and employers in one accessible venue—offering free business mentorship, financial guidance, market linkages, and on-the-spot job opportunities.

 Angkas CEO George Royeca, HE President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., LT Group Inc. President Micheal Tan, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, Pasay Mayor Emi Rubiano, Go Negosyo Founder Joey Concepcion, PCCI Chairman George Barcelon and SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin, come together at Trabaho at Negosyo at SM Mall of Asia, reinforcing collaboration for livelihood and enterprise development.

Through programs like Trabaho at Negosyo, SM Supermalls strengthens its role as a community hub for opportunity, helping Filipinos build livelihoods, grow businesses, and prepare for a future-ready workforce.

A strong turnout of participants fills SM Mall of Asia, reflecting the growing demand for jobs, mentorship, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

A jobseeker at SM East Ortigas celebrates being hired on the spot at Trabaho at Negosyo—demonstrating how SM connects Filipinos to real opportunities.

 

MSMEs and aspiring entrepreneurs receive guidance from industry mentors, highlighting SM’s role as a hub for growth and learning.

Showcasing Negrense Excellence at the Bulawan Trade Fair (May 26–31)

Closing the month is the highly anticipated Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod from May 26 to 31, in partnership with the Association of Negros Producers (ANP). The fair serves as a premier showcase of Negrense craftsmanship, innovation, and product excellence, featuring a diverse range of food, fashion, home décor, and artisanal goods. It also highlights prestigious competitions such as the Bulawan Awards, Pilak Awards, and Balik Salig Design Competition, recognizing excellence in design and product development.

 Visitors explore curated exhibits of award-winning products, celebrating excellence in design and product development from Negros Island.

More than a regional showcase, the Bulawan Trade Fair serves as a gateway to national opportunities, enabling MSMEs to scale from local enterprises into competitive brands through SM’s expansive retail network.

Negrense craftsmanship takes the spotlight at the Bulawan Trade Fair in SM City Bacolod, showcasing locally made products rooted in culture and innovation.

An artisan demonstrates traditional weaving techniques, preserving heritage while creating livelihood opportunities through SM’s platform.

A Nationwide Platform for MSME Success

Across all these initiatives, one thing remains clear: SM Supermalls is more than a retail destination—it is a platform for growth, collaboration, and nation-building.

By providing:
- High-impact marketplaces
- Access to mentorship and market opportunities
- Platforms for employment and entrepreneurship
- Strong partnerships with government and private sector organizations

SM continues to champion over 17,000 MSMEs nationwide, helping them connect with customers, expand their reach, and build sustainable businesses.

From Davao to Cebu to Bacolod, SM for MSMEs brings opportunities closer to Filipinos—proving that when the right platforms are in place, local businesses don’t just grow, they thrive. Visit participating SM malls this May and be part of a movement that champions Filipino entrepreneurship and builds a more inclusive and resilient Philippine economy.

The Bulawan Trade Fair transforms SM City Bacolod into a dynamic marketplace where MSMEs connect with wider markets and new opportunities.

It is indeed a surprise that Davao is the most popular spot in the Philippines. After all, it doesn’t have western restaurants or luxury resorts. But, what it has is the unique and special local experience for its visitors. Here you can look forward to some real Filipino experiences, interactions and food. Go ahead and plan a trip to Davos and take advantage of the cheap Jetstar booking offers.

Davao is just a short boat ride away from the beautiful islands in the Philippines and boasts of breathtaking nature and awesome locations. There is plenty to do and see here to create lifelong memories. You can explore the local markets for authentic dishes or go on a cultural heritage tour of the city or walk through those wildlife sanctuaries. Hop on one of those Manila to Davao flights and begin your fabulous journey. There are direct flights from Manila as well as from other Philippine cities with local airlines.

Discover Davao and look at some of the best things to do in the city.

Crocodile Park to look at freshwater and saltwater crocs – The Crocodile Park is a major tourist destination of the Davao city and boasts of thousands of crocodiles. Here you will get to see both freshwater and saltwater crocs. Watch those baby crocs hatching out of eggs in the incubator room. Take advantage of those educational tours and lectures about wildlife conservation efforts to protect crocs.

Philippine Eagle Center to get up-close and personal with eagles – Also known as the monkey-eating eagle, the Philippine Eagle is native to the eastern side of the Philippines. It thrives in the natural habitat within the mountains of the Sierra Madre and the Mindanao forests. The center is now home to 36 Philippine eagles as well as other birds, reptiles and mammals. The eagle park makes continuous efforts to protect the endangered eagle species.

Dahican Beach for adventurous beach experience – The Dahican Beach is the most beautiful in Dava miles and miles of white sandy beaches, and turquoise water await you. Get your towel and rent a lounge chair to relax and unwind on the beach. You can soak up the sun and read a book or enjoy a cool drink. If you are looking for a more adventurous beach experience, get a tent and camp overnight or go surfing.

Chinatown for beautiful Chinese architecture – Chinatown is spread across the 44-hectare area and is inhabited by the Chinese who were naturalized citizens or born here. However, they still guard their Chinese heritage and culture. Visit the Long Hua Temple and Mindanao Taoist Temple that reflect the Chinese architecture. Shop for Chinese artifacts and do not forget to taste the Chinese food in Chinatown.

Isla Reta Beach Resort for a fun filled day – The Isla Reta Beach Resort is a favorite with the tourists, and a visit here guarantees a day full of fun and frolic. Make good use of their Volley Ball court, picnic tables, and an outdoor grill. You can spend a fun day with your family or friends on this beautiful little island. You can stay the night inside the accommodation of your choice or rent a tent.

Roxas Avenue Night Market for local goods – Another must-do activity while in Davos is a visit to the Roxas Avenue Night Market. This is a unique and colorful market where you can shop for all kinds of Filipino food and products. You can smell the delicacies being prepared at the BBQ, and there are so many options that you won't even know what you are eating. It is a colorful and great market where everything is cheap and interesting.